Paris served as the perfect setting for the recent sail-out of Viking’s eight new river Longships, which occurred in conjunction with the celebration of the company’s 25^th anniversary. Four of the new ships were constructed with the City of Light in mind, designed to navigate the winding River Seine. These four vessels — Viking Fjorgyn, Viking Kari, Viking Radgrid and Viking Skaga — will enjoy their own private dock at Port de Grenelle, within strolling distance of the iconic Eiffel Tower. The other four ships (Viking Egdir, Viking Gersemi, Viking Gymir and Viking Hervor) will sail popular routes along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

“As we mark 25 years of sailing the iconic waterways of the world, it is always a proud day when we welcome new ships to our fleet and offer more opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in comfort,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman, Viking.

The new longships were named during a ceremony that included the ritual breaking of a bottle of Gammel Opland on each ship’s bow. Announcements included news of a new post-trip extension called Paris: A Culinary Experience, available in 2023 to guests aboard the eight-day Paris & the Heart of Normandy sailings.

The three-night extension includes a guided culinary tour of the Belly of Paris and the Rue Montorgueil, where the city’s very first patisserie is located. The tour also includes a croissant-baking workshop led by a local chef at one of the city’s cooking schools and an evening wine and cheese tasting at a private wine cellar conducted by an expert sommelier. There’s also a tour of the 19^th-century Jacquemart-André Museum’s private art collection, where guests are treated to a fascinating workshop on table etiquette.